Dr Claire Hubbard-Hall reveals contribution of Kathleen Pettigrew, most senior secretary in MI6 and inspiration for Ian Fleming, and others in new title

For decades, their work has been hidden from view, their names missing from the history books.

Now, a new book is seeking to shine a light on the secret and unacknowledged contributions of female spies who worked for MI6 in the early 20th century, and establish their place in history using previously classified evidence and newly unearthed documents.